Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

The act states that employers need to take appropriate steps regarding the health and safety of their employees. The act is clear that the steps need to be those that are reasonably practicable.

Steps to take

Employers need to carry out assessments of the risks to their employees. Different types of employment require different assessments. Whilst there are more risks associated with manual workers, risks to clerical staff need be assessed too.

Driving at work

One of the risks that crosses over all types of staff is driving at work. The Health and Safety Executive provide separate advice for Driving at Work. If you visit this link for managing work related road safety this is a great first step. There is a ten page guide which every employer should read through.

What are the extent of my businesses responsibilities

A business, or employer, has wide ranging responsibilities. These extend beyond their own staff. An employers must also ensure that others are not put at risk by work related driving.

An effective way to assess your responsibilities is to go through the HSE checklist. These are based around three main areas. Safe driver and driving, safe vehicle(s) and safe journey(s).

Driving and the risks involved

The HSE estimate that up to a quarter of all road accidents involve people driving whilst on business related activities. Driving is the most dangerous activity that workers are involved in. It is not difficult to understand the significant risks both to employees and to others, related to driving.

Third party motor insurance

It is an offence to drive on a public road or in a public place without correct and valid motor insurance. The minimum required cover is 3rd party insurance. This applies to private car, business car and motor fleet insurance.

Employers liability insurance

It is important that your business insurance policy extends to include employees whilst driving. A standard fleet insurance policy will contain exclusions. One of these is death or bodily injury whilst in a vehicle except where the Road Traffic Act states liability needs to apply.

It is important that employees are covered, either through the liability insurance or business motor vehicle covers.

Where can I get a quote?

We’ve said a number of times that a business insurance broker should be your first, and only, port of call. A brokers role is to understand and interpret your business insurance needs. Every business is different and a broker can help you get the right cover at a competitive price.

Claims support

Nowadays we are bombarded with messages that we should cost for everything, from electricity to envelopes. A broker will do this for you. The other benefit of using a broker is claims support. Brokers want you to be their client for many years. One of the ways they support you is when you have a claim. In the unfortunate event of an employee being injured whilst driving, you’ll want a broker to be on your side.